Albino Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata)

Meet the Albino Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata)—a pale, armored bottom-dweller with a soft peach-pink glow that stands out against dark substrate and driftwood.

These South American callichthyids are peaceful for their size, active foragers, and a favorite among hobbyists who want a hardy scavenger that still has real personality.

At Tide & Stream Aquatics we keep them for aquarists building community tanks who need tank mates that clean leftover food without bullying midwater fish.

Quick care

• Adult size: About 5–6 inches (12–15 cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful to mildly territorial with other bottom fish; otherwise community-safe
• Minimum tank size: 40 gallons for one adult; larger if kept with other catfish
• Diet: Omnivore—sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, veggie wafers
• Water: 72–82°F; pH 6.0–7.5; soft to moderately hard water preferred
• Ideal tank mates: Tetras, rainbowfish, peaceful cichlids, Corydoras; avoid aggressive diggers that stress them

Frequently asked questions

What tank size do Albino Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata) need?

Plan on at least a 30–40 gallon footprint for a small group—adults are robust, active bottom-dwellers that need open floor space. Longer tanks beat tall ones. Strong filtration helps with the waste load these armored catfish produce.

How many Albino Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata) should I keep?

They are social callichthyids—keep three or more so they can school and feel secure. A lone fish often stays shy. In bigger tanks a group of four to six looks natural and spreads out territorial squabbles.

Are Albino Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata) peaceful community fish?

Yes with similarly sized peaceful tank mates. They may casually snack on very tiny shrimp or fish fry, but they are not aggressive cichlid-style bullies. Avoid housing them with delicate nanos that could be outcompeted at feeding time.

What substrate suits Albino Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata)?

Soft sand or smooth fine gravel protects their barbels while they root for food. Add caves, driftwood, and leaf litter for cover. Keep the substrate clean—dirty gravel can inflame barbels over time.

What do Albino Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata) eat?

Offer sinking pellets or wafers as a staple, plus frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped earthworms. They will scavenge leftovers but still need food aimed at the bottom. Variety keeps them plump and active.

Are Albino Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata) good for beginners?

They are hardy once the tank is cycled and stable, making them a friendly step-up catfish. Watch temperature (roughly mid-70s °F) and give them friends plus sand. Absolute beginners should master cycling before adding any fish.